Sánchez stirs controversy over Ceuta and relations with the King

The President of the Government of Spain, Pedro Sánchez, recently concluded his vacation and, in an interview with Cadena Ser, expressed that King Felipe VI has not visited Ceuta in the past 20 years, raising questions about the significance of his presence in the autonomous city. The remark provoked reactions, as Felipe VI ascended to the throne in 2014, and there are no records of a visit to Ceuta in this decade.

During the interview, Sánchez praised Morocco's management of the migration crisis that occurred on July 30 and 31, when approximately 72,000 people attempted to enter Ceuta illegally. The head of the Executive stated that he is the president who has done the most for the city, emphasizing the need for a royal visit to Ceuta.

The political party Podemos criticized Sánchez, accusing him of trying to divert attention from his own management in Ceuta through controversies involving the King. The party suggested that the president was seeking a controversy to avoid discussions about his response to the migrant influx.

Furthermore, sources indicate that King Felipe VI expressed interest in visiting Ceuta, but the visit was postponed by the government, possibly to avoid misunderstandings with the Moroccan government. This decision was also seen as a reflection of the tension between Sánchez’s Executive and the monarchy.

The situation was considered a gaffe by Sánchez, who erroneously stated that the King has "reigned for twenty years," raising curiosity and criticism regarding both his statement and the relationship between the Government and the Royal House.

Finally, the prohibition of the gathering in Cibeles, planned in support of Ceuta, reinforces the delicate context in which the relations between government bodies, the monarchy, and the handling of the migration crisis find themselves.